East Hill Marine Limited is authorised by HPi Verification Services Limited (a UK notified body appointed by UK Government) to carry out inspections of recreational craft in the United Kingdom that are subject to the Recreational Craft Regulations (“RCR”).
By appointing Graham Lane DipMarSur (Y&SC) AYDSA, as an HPiVS Authorised Inspector, you can be certain that your vessel will be inspected and documented in a fair and compliant manner before a UKCA mark is issued. All UKCA marks issued by HPiVS are traceable through a fully audited database, providing peace of mind for you or a future owner.
The Recreational Craft Regulations 2017 outline the requirements for ensuring that recreational craft and personal watercraft meet safety and environmental standards before they are placed on the market or put into service. Among the key provisions is the post-construction assessment process, which is specifically designed for cases where the craft is not manufactured in series production or does not have a conformity assessment carried out by the manufacturer.
What is the Post-Construction Assessment Process?
The Post Construction Assessment (PCA) process is a conformity procedure applicable to recreational craft or personal watercraft that have been constructed or imported without a proper manufacturing conformity assessment. This process ensures that the craft complies with the essential safety requirements and other standards outlined in the Recreational Craft Regulations 2017.
Steps Involved in the Post-Construction Assessment Process
The PCA process generally involves the following steps:
1. Appointment of an authorised RCR Inspector
Either an RCR Inspector approved by a Notified Body or the Notified Body itself, which is an independent organisation authorised by the UK Government, to assess conformity, must be appointed. This body plays a critical role in verifying that the craft meets the regulatory requirements.
2. Examination of the Craft
The RCR Inspector conducts a thorough examination of the craft, including its design, construction, and compliance with essential safety and environmental requirements. This can include tests on stability, buoyancy, fuel systems, electrical systems, and emissions.
3. Documentation Review
The RCR Inspector reviews the technical documentation provided by the Owner or importer of the craft. This documentation must demonstrate compliance with the relevant standards and include detailed information about the design, construction materials, and systems.
4. Issuance of a Certificate
If the craft meets all the required standards, the notified body issues a Post Construction Assessment Certificate. This certificate serves as evidence that the craft is compliant with the Recreational Craft Regulations 2017.
5. Affixing of the UKCA Mark
Once the PCA certificate is issued, the UKCA marking can be affixed to the craft. This marking indicates that the craft complies with all applicable safety and environmental standards and can legally be marketed or used within the European Economic Area (EEA).
All UKCA marking issued by East Hill Marine is easily traceable back to the Notified Body via a web portal.
Responsibilities of the Owner or Importer
The owner or importer of the craft has several responsibilities under the PCA process:
- Ensuring that the RCR Inspector and the Notified Body have access to the craft and all relevant documentation.
- Providing accurate and complete technical documentation for review.
- Affixing the UKCA mark after the receipt of the PCA certificate.
- Maintaining records of the assessment and certificate for future reference.
Importance of the Post Construction Assessment
The PCA process is vital for ensuring that recreational craft and personal watercraft meet stringent safety and environmental standards, particularly when they are imported or constructed without prior conformity checks. It helps protect users, the environment, and ensures fair competition in the market by enforcing a level playing field for all manufacturers and importers.
Conclusion
The Post Construction Assessment process under the Recreational Craft Regulations 2017 is a critical safeguard for ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. By adhering to this process, owners and importers of recreational craft can ensure that their vessels meet the required standards, thus promoting safety, environmental protection, and market integrity.